Meraki Adds New Hardware, Software For Better Cloud-Based Networks

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Tim Higgins

Meraki logoMeraki has introduced new remote-end appliances for its cloud-managed networking systems.

The MX60W adds dual-band ("N450") wireless connectivity to the MX60 platform, which is an access and security appliance aimed at centrally-managed small branch office deployments supporting up to 20 users.

The all-in-one security appliance includes Gigabit WAN (1) and switched LAN (4) ports and backup/failover via optional 3G / 4G USB modem.

Other features include support for four SSIDs, a Layer 7 application-aware firewall and centrally-managed anti-virus, content filtering and intrusion detection. Bandwidth management is provided via integrated traffic shaping and WAN optimization for CIFS, FTP, HTTP, and TCP traffic.

Meraki MX60W Appliance and Z1 Gateway

Meraki MX60W Appliance and Z1 Gateway

The Z1 is targeted at securely extending company networks to employee’s homes via secure auto-configuring site-to-site VPN. The compact appliance includes simultaneous dual-band "N600" wireless with four SSIDs, Gigabit WAN (1) and switched LAN (4) ports and backup/failover via optional 3G / 4G USB modem.

It includes the Auto VPN and traffic-shaping features of the MX60W. But it has a simpler Layer 3 firewall that does not support optimization, anti-virus and filtering features.

Meraki feature comparison

Meraki feature comparison

Like all Meraki products, the MX60W and Z1 are managed via the company’s web portal, which provides centralized management of distributed networks from anywhere the cloud can reach.

Meraki also announced improved support for networking Apple devices via its new Bonjour gateway. It also announced the addition of network-wide intrusion detection and improved Traffic Shaping to its entire MX security appliance line. These features will be rolled out as a no-cost software update later this month.

The MX60W is available immediately at a list price of $895. The Z1 is available immediately at a list price of $195.

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